Ermita, formerly regarded as a red light district has evolved to a tourism destination and a hospitality business district that foreigners flocked to. The district is now lined up with themed restaurants and bar for the fun-loving spectator and affordable hotels for family city staycation, Filipino backpackers and foreigners alike.

Last December 18, Ermita Malate Businesses Owners Association (EMBOA) invited several online influencers to a tour of the district to highlight the changes and updates that most of us will be interested in. The event coincided with EMBOA’s “Maligayang Pasko, Handog Pasasalamat” which aim to give back to the district’s less fortunate citizens.

The event, in Partnership with the City government of Manila shared smiles and love to the district’s Five hundred (500) deserving children. Holiday cheers floated in the air as Philippine Women’s University (PWU) Choir headed the Christmas carols while Unibersidad De Manila (UDM) dancers shared their talent at dancing.​

EMBOA’s president and CEO of Miramar Hotel, Ms. Michelle Pe opened the program thanking the District’s Sixteen barangays for supporting Ermita Businesses. Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada graced the event to back up the endeavor, as well as thank Manila constituents for their unwavering support.

We got to visit two affordable accommodation spot which budget travelers frequent and we were surprised at the low cost of stay they are offering.

Rosas Garden

​Offering a very affordable rate of 2,300 nett that includes breakfast for two is such a steal with Rosas Garden’s. The establishment also offers delectable cuisines on their In-house restaurant/ bar that serves International favorites.

Rosas Garden has 24 hotel rooms that is comfortably designed to fit budget travelers. Notable offers are Unli beer every Wednesday night for only Php499/pax.

Rosas Garden Is located at 1140 M.H. Del Pilar st. Ermita Manila and can be contacted at 632) 404 1622 or email them at rghfd@rosasgardenhotel.com

Where 2 Next

​Where 2 Next is a promising Hostel that features dormitory like accommodations for backpackers. They offer an overnight stay for as low as Php495 ( $11) which already includes a healthy breakfast for 1 pax.The establishment regularly offer several destination tour in the City such as Binondo Food Tour as well as Market tour to entertain their guests.

​Where 2 next also hold several feeding/outreach program in which their guests gladly take part in, sharing their compassion through volunteerism. They also offer the place to hobby program such as cooking and life coaching series.Where 2 Next is located at 1776 M. Adriatico st. Ermita Manila For more information on Where 2 Next, you may call them at mobile no. 0917 804 0434.

We also got to visit a place which which are frequented by people who loves fun, booze and music, The Bellagio Square. The place is a hub for bars that shared a centralized beer offerings and a stage in the middle that showcased homegrown talents that dishes out your favorite tunes.

​These and more awaits you as you visit Ermita. Truly, there’s no District in Manila that is more alive than this. EMBOA furthers that several livelihood programs, peace and order as well as clean-up drive are lined up in the year 2016.